Not only is Kex one of the smartest hostels you’ll come across, it’s also one of the coolest places to hang out in Reykjavik – whether that’s listening to bands playing in the bar (or on the terrace), eating in the superb bar or relaxing in the lounge. The hostel has room for 142 guests, including three women-only dorms, but entering it requires a leap of faith: the sign outside is minimal and the stairwell is barren. For the owners, this bafflement is a deliberate ploy to enhance the wow factor of reaching the lively reception and bar.

This chic yet relaxed hotel-hostel offers a great location and an impressive spread of amenities that span a café-bar, a lounge that hosts concerts by local bands, and a gym. Kex – the Icelandic word for biscuits – is a reference to the hostel’s former incarnation as a biscuit factory. As well as spacious, comfortable dorms for between eight and 16 people (mixed as well as women-only, availability permitting), the hostel has private rooms for singles, couples and families.

Located in a former biscuit factory at the eastern end of downtown, the KEX Hostel regularly hosts all kinds of gigs. The large common bar area is where it all goes down – it’s a bright space overlooking the harbour, filled with bookshelves, vinyl records and vintage knick-knacks, with maps on the wall. “KEX has a lovely mix of locals and visitors and has a regular jazz night alongside concerts from Reykjavík’s coolest emerging bands,” says Boonekamp.

Occupying a former biscuit factory overlooking the harbour, Kex Hostel is one of Reykjavík’s most fashionable places to stay. The glorious bar, restaurant and general chill-out area is a wonderful space, with walls adorned by large maps, shelves overflowing with books and antiques, and retro leather couches. Upstairs dorm rooms are pared-back yet comfortable, but it’s the social aspect of the restaurant and bar that makes Kex a winner.

Locals love this hostel bar-restaurant (mains 2000kr to 2500kr) in an old cookie factory ( kex means 'biscuit') for its broad sea-view windows, inner courtyard and own-brew beer. Happy hipsters soak up the 1920s Vegas vibe: saloon doors, old-school barber station, happy chatter and scuffed floors. Look out for regular, free, live jazz sessions.

Kex (which means "biscuit" in Icelandic) is located in a former biscuit factory. Its industrial decor and setting suits the younger crowd that flocks there, further emphasized by the fact that it doubles as a hostel and gastropub. But no matter your crowd, the food is actually some of the best I had in the city.

we didnt stay at KEX hostel but we went there twice for burgers and coffee and cool people watching. The interior is an instagrammers dream and the abbreviated menu is a good mix of American heartiness (cheeseburgers) and delicious Scando fare (various smorrebrod).

While most people flock to the center of the action to set a home base—usually, one of the hotels lining Laugavegur—the Old Harbour neighborhood sets a more tranquil scene to start and end each day. Exeter Hotel packages design-forward interiors, friendly service, and more amenities than you’d expect for the room rate into a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to fall somewhere between “local” and “just passing through.” The four-star hotel opened in 2018 and has since become a hub for local events—such as a fashion show venue for local designer Magnea for the city’s 2023 DesignMarch.

On a rainy evening, wander into Kex for all the comfort you might need. Part bar, part hostel, this is one of the most popular bars in town for both international tourists and locals looking to socialize. Housed in a former biscuit factory, come here to drink in a comforting and aesthetically-pleasing setting; the cozy atmosphere lends itself to an evening of conversation, but the quality of the drinks, whether crafted cocktails or local lagers, may encourage extra-long chats or a venture to nearby downtown Reykjavík for a bit of partying.

Whether you're seeking the luxurious comforts of Hotel Reykjavik Grand with its stunning skyline views or the unique charm of Kex Hostel, which is set in a converted biscuit factory, you'll discover a variety of options that fit your style. For longer stays, the Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel and Downtown Reykjavik Apartments offer all the conveniences of home right in the heart of the city. Each hotel boasts its own unique character and hospitality that puts Icelandic warmth on display.

Housed in a former biscuit factory, KEX Hostel Reykjavik blends industrial charm with a lively social atmosphere, making it one of the most iconic hostels in downtown Reykjavik. Located on Skulagata (Skúlagata) 28, it’s just steps from the Laugavegur Shopping Street and offers scenic views over Faxafloi Bay (Faxaflói) and Mount Esja. The hostel offers a variety of accommodations, including mixed and female-only dormitories, as well as private single, double, twin, and family rooms.

If you want to try a tea from this Reykjavík staple but aren’t into the whole corporate monopoly thing (or you just forgot your computer charger) you can head to Kex Hostel, which serves some of the main names from the collection. Here you’ll find a few fewer laptops, and a lot more view—the back wall of Kex’s café-bar-restaurant looks out toward Esja, and the sea. You can practically feel the wind whipping your hair, which makes grabbing onto that warm mug all the more satisfying.

The Laundromat Café and Lebowski Bar—one a book-filled coffee shop and bar, the other named after 1998’s The Big Lebowski—attract tourists and locals alike until they close at 4:30 a.m.; Kex Hostel, with its 24-hour bar overlooking Mt. Esja, attracts a similar crowd and doesn’t ever truly shut down. And at Paloma, a dance club on Naustin, three floors of house, techno, and DJ sets may be what finally sends you lumbering toward bed.

Kex Hostel – we came here on Friday night after spending the day at the Blue Lagoon (more on that below!) and we were in the mood for a cozy meal, which we definitely found here. The carrot soup I ordered totally hit the spot – it was luscious, and it was served with an unending selection of thick, soft bread and salted butter. We also noshed on homemade Parmesan crisps and burgers, and we drank really refreshing local beer.

KEX Hostel is a hip hostel with a super cool design aesthetic and a fun and friendly atmosphere. It isn’t a party hostel but it is lively thanks to its bar with frequent live bands and other activities (the bar closes at 11 pm so the hostel is quiet at night). The hostel also overlooks the water and mountains, and it’s only a few minutes walk to all the restaurants, museums, bars, and other things in the city center.

Located close to the Hallgrimskirkja Church (600m) and within walking distance of many restaurants, cafes, and a supermarket, this affordable artsy hostel features a gastropub, gym, communal kitchen, hair salon, self-service laundry, several comfortable sitting areas, and an outdoor terrace. Accommodation options include private sea-view rooms with ensuite bathrooms and shared dormitories with lockers.

We arrived in to Reykjavik on the Flybus and were dropped a block away from the hostel, from there it was pretty easy to find. The reception is on the top floor, stupidly we didn’t realise this and trekked up stairs with all our luggage… I would recommend taking the lift in this case. We were greeted by a friendly guy who checked us in swiftly, answered all my questions before directing us to our room.

One of the happier stories borne out of Iceland’s 2008 economic crisis, Kex is housed in an abandoned biscuit factory that escaped demolition when plans to build skyscrapers in its place ran out of cash. The owners transformed the building into a chic hostel, bar and eatery, naming it after the Icelandic word for biscuit. Travelers and Reykjavikers come here to drink beer and catch impromptu gigs.

When you enter the doors of this much-loved and highly-rated unique Iceland abode, you are immediately transported into a wonderfully retro and eclectic world. Unsurprisingly, this kitsch hostel has quickly become an institution in the city. It also boasts a superb central location with Atlantic sea views, only an 11-minute walk from Harpa concert hall (and only a 3-minute walk from a bus stop).

Kex Hostel serves as a prime example of Reykjavik’s welcoming spirit. Not just a place to stay, it’s a vibrant meeting point for travelers and locals alike, often hosting events that give a perfect sneak peek into the nightlife culture. Coupled with the hostel’s comfort, the city’s happy hours provide a savvy way to enjoy the diverse selection of bars and clubs without stretching your budget.

I stayed at the Kex Hostel, a funky, hip hotel that doesn’t offer many services but definitely offers a great vibe. It’s a very young crowd and most rooms are dorm-style or don’t come with facilities but they do have some that are large and well-equipped. I loved my private room which had a view of the water across and was furnished with an eclectic mix of Ikea pieces and vintage furniture.

If you love good beer, check out Skúli Craft Bar during happy hour where you can sip local brews at the outdoor picnic tables or head to Kex Hostel for one of the cheapest beers in town (800 kr). There’s also an app, Appy Hour Reykjavik, that you can download to find the nearest (and cheapest) cocktail, although during COVID they have not been updating the information on a regular basis.

One for true beer lovers, this gastro-pub is part of the popular Kex Hostel. Built in a former biscuit factory, this rustic, cool pub has a wide selection of local lagers, craft beers, and ales, as well as wines and spirits. Its food is sourced from local producers and foragers, and they’re especially proud of their high-end bar snacks, which will help fuel your night-time adventures.

Kex Hostel, an Icelandic word for 'biscuit', is a central Reykjavik hostel offering stylish private guest rooms and dorms with free Wi-Fi access - just steps away from bars, clubs, and music venues. Here, guests have access to a communal kitchen, buffet breakfast, and the in-house Flatus Restaurant. Drinx Bar has musical events every Thursday to Saturday and a heated outdoor terrace.

KEX hostel often hosts concerts with free entrance and Loft hostel too from time to time. One of the most famous live music venues in town is Gaukurinn, which also has some free concerts and other events. If you are in Reykjavík in late August, you could attend Culture Night, with a variety of free cultural events around the city and big outdoor concerts downtown in the evening.

The conveniently located Kex Hostel is the best place to stay in Iceland, Reykjavik on a limited budget. While the dorm rooms are very bare bones, there are cosy private rooms too that are uniquely decorated. Hang out in the stylish communal lounge area, prepare a meal in the shared kitchen or dine in at Flatus Restaurant, and grab a beer at Drinx Bar and listen to live music.

This 200-person hostel is set in a former biscuit factory (kex is the Icelandic word for “biscuit” or “cookie”). The huge Scandi-industrial-chic space has myriad types of rooms: mixed dorms, female-only dorms, private double rooms, and rooms that can accommodate families. The dorms have really thick mattresses (a big plus) as well as lockers, but the beds don’t have curtains.

Kex Hostel (Skúlagata 28, tel. 354/561-6060) has become a Reykjavík institution over the past few years. The building, formerly a biscuit factory, is a great space, complete with mid-century furniture, vintage wall maps, and a lot of curiosities. A small stage in the entryway hosts up-and-coming bands while guests drink and hang out at the bar (11:30am-11pm daily).

KEX Hostel, housed within a former biscuit factory, is a testament to this spirit. Its industrial chic interior is home to one of the city's most eclectic pubs. Known for live music performances, cultural events, and a meticulously curated selection of international and Icelandic beers, KEX Hostel is a must-visit for those seeking a more offbeat experience.

Kex translates to “biscuit” in Icelandic, which makes sense once you realize that the Kex Hostel in Reykjavik is actually inside an old biscuit factory. A self-proclaimed social hostel, Kex is located in the heart of Reykjavik. The interior design of the hostel showcases a modern and industrial feel yet doesn’t skimp out with elements of coziness as well.

In Iceland, there are many youth hostels with accommodation, bars, cafes and restaurants in one, and KEX is one of the best. KEX, once a factory for making Mj ó lkurkex cookies, which is popular in Iceland, was later converted into a compound youth hostel. As a staunch fan of vintage industrial style, KEX's interior decoration completely hit my heart.

Kex is a great meeting spot for locals and travelers, especially the latter given it's one of the most popular places for visitors to stay. The restaurant and bar consists of communal tables, so you're sure to meet a friend as you're enjoying a beer. The food cannot be missed — the dishes are so good you'll forget you're dining in a hostel lobby.

(Skúlagata 28, Reykjavík) Kex Hostel has become a Reykjavík nightlife institution in recent years . Located in what was formerly a cookie factory, the bar has a large space, complete with mid-century furniture, vintage wall maps, and lots of curios. A small stage at the entrance hosts up-and-coming bands as guests drink and congregate at the bar.

It’s located in the heart of the city so hopping across bars, shops, and cafes is as easy as stepping out the front door and wandering the surrounding streets. You can also grab a beer, coffee, or bite to eat in-house while communing with fellow travelers from across the world. Book a private room or stay in dormitory-style lodging.

This place is a little hard to find as there is only a little sign that says “KEX” on the door and you walk to the 2nd floor and then you enter the great cafe / bar / restaurant area … Sort of like the Iceland verision of “speak easy” 🙂. NOTE : They host beer & music festivals so check their agenda as it is usually super FUN !

KEX Hostel is not just a place to stay, but also a lively spot for underground music in Reykjavík. Housed in a former biscuit factory, this hostel features a vibrant bar and restaurant area that often hosts live music events. The eclectic decor and relaxed vibe create an inviting atmosphere for both travelers and locals alike.

Stop by the bar at KEX Hostel if you’re a fan of refurbed and repurposed old buildings. Home for many years to a biscuit factory, it has mercifully not been transformed into high-rise apartments. At Kaldi Bar and microbrewery, an attractive crowd sips the local Kaldi beer on tap, as well as several other well-made brews.

The facade is very small, there is almost no facade, as soon as you enter the door there is a staircase. On the second floor is a bar and restaurant, where you can eat, and the front desk is also there. Luggage can be stored for free on the second floor, but it is a storage box in the living room without a lock.

One of the great things about Kex Hostel Reykjavik is its waterfront location, which gives you spectacular views of the fjord. The hostel is also conveniently located close to the international and domestic airports. The BSI terminal is a quick walk away and can be used to book bus and tour reservations.

Solid all-around, Kex Hostel is our pick for the overall best hostel in Reykjavik. It has awesome facilities and modern rooms with an industrial-chic vibe, with a choice of private rooms and dorms for four, six, and 16. Sleeping up to 200 guests, there are heaps of potential new buddies to bond with.

Kex Hostel is a popular hostel in Reykjavik that is known for its funky décor and friendly atmosphere. The hostel is located in the heart of Reykjavik, and it's just a short walk from all the major attractions. The hostel has a variety of rooms, including private rooms, shared rooms, and dorm rooms.

Housed in an old biscuit factory, KEX is proud to call itself a ‘social hostel’. They have a bar and restaurant, as well as heated outdoor patios, so even when it’s cold you can sit outside and watch the world go by. They mix the vintage with the contemporary to create a brilliant atmosphere.

If you desire a rich cultural experience at a hostel, then this could be the location in Reykjavik for you. Evolving from once being a biscuit factory, it is now one of the liveliest and most well-known bars in the city. The Kex Hostel draws all kinds of different people within its doors.

The wonderfully eclectic, laid-back Kex Hostel is a place you can literally hang out at all day and all night. Now they also offer a yummy brunch to suit all ages on weekends including things such as pancakes, egg on sourdough toast, sausages and their famous Freedom burger.

Situated inside an old biscuit factory, the decor is unique and inviting. Very well priced and centrally located in Reykjavik. They occasionally host concerts, movie nights, events and gatherings inside their hall, which is styled as an old-school boxing training facility.

Delicious and reasonably priced breakfast, diverse menu at the bar/restaurant, and a good selection of food and drinks. However, occasional noise from the bar area. Reasonable pricing for a hostel in the heart of Reykjavik, with options for private rooms and dormitories.

Kex is one of the most popular places to stay in Reykjavik and one of the coolest scenes as well. This old biscuit factory turned into a hostel has a happening bar and delicious restaurant!. I’ve stopped in here often for a quick bite to eat and never been disappointed.

Hosted in the intimate venue of Kex Hostel, the Reykjavík Folk Festival began in 2010 as a tribute to the 10 year anniversary of the South River Band. This small, homey festival is a venue where the working man's music can be heard and enjoyed throughout the night.

KEX Hostel occupies a former biscuit factory building close to the Hlemmur bus station east of the centre. It's a rather big venue with 142 beds. 12 single and double rooms, 2 of which have private facilities, and 2 family rooms with bunks offer made-up beds.

Kex Hostel sits in central Reykjavík, just a short walk from Laugarvegur shopping street and Harpa Concert Hall, placing you in the heart of the city's action. The hostel consistently earns high ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.

A superb boutique hotel that combines high design with sophisticate minimalism. Simple rooms and suites have clean lines with wooden floors, black and white furnishings, bath tubs and balconies. Lively restaurant and bar, excellent spa, and family friendly.

In the heart of Reykjavík was a biscuit factory, that has now turned into a hostel. With a sense of the past, mixed with the hipster present, Kex Hostel is sure to fit your needs. Every morning you may join fellow travelers at the Baxtur breakfast buffet.

Kex Hostel is more than just accommodation—it‘s where music lovers and the cool crowd meet up for drinks and live music. They offer both dorm and private rooms. In the front lounge, there’s a bar, restaurant, and a small stage for live bands to perform.

Housed in an old biscuit factory, this quaint hostel is just steps away from the center of Reykjavik. Guests will enjoy a number of modern amenities here and more!. To love: Good value deal | Landmark: Hallgrímskirkja Church | Price starts from: $22~

Set just 250 meters from Laugarvegur shopping street, this central Reykjavik hostel offers guest rooms and dormitory rooms with free Wi-Fi access. Harpa Concert Hall is 1 km away... A seating area and a wardrobe feature in all rooms at Kex Hostel.

Kex Hostel is a popular choice for both budget travelers and backpackers. It’s located in the heart of Reykjavik, just steps from the main attractions. The hostel has a stylish industrial-chic design, with exposed brick walls and retro furniture.

Hostels in Reykjavik are offering community vibes and chilled atmosphere, more than wild parties and crazy events. Although they have tons of fun activities and common areas, drinking and loud music is something you should leave for pubs.

This is a hotel that is quite interesting and that you do want to consider staying it because of all that it offers. There are rooms available for a maximum of 142 guests. This actually includes some women only dorms that you can stay at.

Kex Hostel is among the few all-inclusive hotels in the larger Reykjavik region. Adults, kids, and persons living with disability all have a chance to vacation in this establishment. The hostel has both guest rooms and dormitory rooms.

Forget what you think you know about hostels because Kex isn’t that. This former biscuit factory overlooking the harbor is one of the hottest spots in the city, and its Gastropub is the perfect place for a cozy Icelandic meal.

For a more budget-friendly experience, the KEX Hostel is a popular option. Situated in a former biscuit factory, the hostel is known for its relaxed atmosphere. You can choose both private rooms and dormitory accommodations.

Kex Hostel is located in an old biscuit factory in the middle of Reykjavik. It's just minutes from many of the city's best bars, clubs, and music venues. It's also very close to the city's most popular tourist attractions.

I really wanted to like the Kex hostel it has its good points, but overall was the worst hostel stay I have had in Iceland. I’ll give you my very detailed opinion. The Bad… -Lacking in the toilet paper department!!!

They have a beautiful view over the ocean and the mountains. It’s always a fun vibe and often they’ll have live music there and good prices.” Drinking is expensive in Iceland, so cherish these drink specials!

Hostels around the world are known for the quirky crowd they attract. When a hostel has a bar, that bar is the place to be, whether you are staying there or not. The Kex hostel is a perfect example of this.

Featuring a restaurant and a gift shop onsite, the 2-star Kex Hostel is situated in a shopping district, at a distance of 0.6 km from Hverfisgata. If you need to keep in touch with the outside world,…

Featuring a gift shop and a restaurant onsite, the 2-star Kex Hostel is situated in a shopping district, an 8-minute walk from National Theatre of Iceland. If you need to keep in touch with the…

KEX Hostel is the best hostel for solo travellers in Reykjavik. KEX Hostel is the best hostel for solo travellers in Reykjavik. KEX Hostel is the best hostel for solo travellers in Reykjavik

Kex Hostel provides budget accommodation in private rooms and dorms in Reykjavik city centre. Furniture and decorations are upcycled and gives to this hostel a unique atmosphere more info »

The KEX Hostel is one of the best places to stay in the Iceland capital of Reykjavik. Interestingly, KEX is the Icelandic word for ‘biscuit’ because it was formerly a biscuit factory.

Kex Hostel has been a leading force in the Icelandic beer boom. The Kex Brewing group brews beer for draft consumption and releases very limited supplies of canned and bottled beer.

The bar at Kex Hostel Reykjavik has become a very popular hang-out place among locals and travelers, where you can enjoy frosty pints of local beers, cocktails, wines and...

Kex Hostel – This trendy hostel, located in a former biscuit factory, not only offers dormitory-style accommodations but also features a lively bar and restaurant.

Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is located 10 minutes on foot from Kex Hostel. Most of the rooms at the Reykjavik hostel offer views of the ocean.

If you’re not sure why, how do lava fields of black rock, geothermal springs, lively nightlife, friendly locals and the northern lights sound?

Kex Hostel is supposed to have free events also and the Big Lebowski bar has a Christmas-themed movie quiz with prizes!